CA Guitar Repair Blog: Pure Tone PTT1G Mono Output Jack

1 Introduction

The Pure Tone Mono Multi-Contact 1/4″ Output Jack [PTT1] was invented by Dave Linsk, the lead guitar player of Overkill. It is available in three finishes, namely, Nickel, Black Nickel and Gold. From what I've read so far, it's clear that the PTT1 boasts a number of features and characteristics not found on typical 1/4" open frame mono output jacks. For minutely detailed specifications and loads of information on the PTT1, head over to Pure Tone and Sweetwater.

2 Pure Tone PTT1G

This post is about a PTT1G, the gold-plated variant of the PTT1. It's recently been installed in a Fender Japan Traditional II 60s Precision Bass as a replacement for the stock Switchcraft #11 output jack. Our story begins with a look at the PTT1G while still inside its packaging.

PTT1G Packaging - Front

PTT1G Packaging - Back

Here's the PTT1G out of its packaging. It's been disassembled, and you can clearly see the chassis, two hex mounting nuts, and a flat washer. It's a shame that Pure Tone have not provided a lock washer, as this component keeps the mounting nuts from rotating, and the jack eventually coming loose. Meanwhile, Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the dimensions of the PTT1G in both inches and millimeters, sourced from Vision Guitar.

PTT1G Disassembled

Fig. 1: PTT1G Dimensions

3 Positive and Ground Solder Lugs

Time to take a closer look at the PTT1G, starting with the two solder lugs. The positive lug is where the hot wire from the volume pot is soldered to. As it is part of the two positive flanges, it transmits the hot signal to these flanges, and onto the tip of the jack plug whenever a cable is plugged in. The ground lug, on the other hand, is where the ground wire from the back of the volume pot is soldered to. When a cable is plugged into the PTT1G, the sleeve of the jack plug makes contact with the two ground flanges and ground lug, effectively grounding the instrument's circuitry and completing the circuit.

PTT1G - Positive and Ground Solder Lugs

4 Positive Flanges

The concave contact points of the two positive flanges make firm contact with the tip of the jack plug whenever a cable is plugged in, and transmit the hot signal from the instrument to an amplifier. Both flanges are of equal length, and situated directly opposite each other. One flange is engraved with the Pure Tone logo, and the other with the words "Pure Tone" in uppercase.

Positive Flanges - Side View

Positive Flanges - Front/Back View

5 Ground Flanges

Both ground flanges are physically and electrically connected to the sleeve, chassis and ground lug of the PTT1G. These flanges have concave contact points, and are located on the inner "ring" of the PTT1G. In conjunction with the PTT1G sleeve, the ground flanges establish a stable ground connection with the sleeve of the jack plug whenever a cable is plugged in [see Section 3].

Ground Flanges - Side View

Ground Flanges - Front/Back View

6 Installing the PTT1G

Having been properly introduced to the PTT1G, let's dive right into its installation. But first, let's pay homage to the stock Switchcraft #11 jack socket that will be put out to pasture. Here it is, still part of the circuit, and after desoldering and disassembly. For those of you who are wondering about that black lock washer, yes, it's going to be cleaned and reused.

Stock Switchcraft #11 Jack Socket

Switchcraft #11 Disassembled

Pulled another all-nighter, and it's a rainy November morning. The PTT1G has been installed in the Fender Japan Traditional II 60s Precision Bass, everything works as it should, and life is good. Guess what? The bass has also been treated to new stainless steel pickguard screws. They aren't gold-plated, but match the stock knurled flat-top control knobs to a T.